The classification triggered a regulatory process
Regulation 2021/1902 describes zinc pyrithione as classified category 1B for reproductive toxicity. Under the cosmetics framework, a request sought an exception for anti-dandruff rinse-off hair products at up to 1%. The regulation added the substance to the prohibited cosmetic ingredients list, applying from March 2022. [1]
A limited safety assessment did not satisfy every condition
The regulation records the scientific committee’s conclusion that the specified rinse-off use could be considered safe at up to 1%. However, the required absence of suitable alternatives had not been established. Meeting one scientific condition was therefore not enough to obtain the legal exception. [1]
Do not generalize the decision to every zinc product
Imagine comparing an old anti-dandruff shampoo with zinc oxide sunscreen. These contain different substances, and the cited decision does not prohibit every ingredient with zinc in its name. Check the current rules for the product’s country and category rather than turning this EU cosmetic decision into a worldwide statement about dietary zinc. [1][2]
| Observation | What it establishes |
|---|---|
| Zinc pyrithione | The specific substance in the decision |
| Rinse-off assessment | Did not meet all exception requirements |
| Zinc oxide or dietary zinc | Different substances and uses |
Sources for this article
- Regulation - 2021/1902 - EN - EUR-Lex
Source consulted: 2026-09-20. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product. - Zinc - Health Professional Fact Sheet
Source consulted: 2026-09-20. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product.